Why does Simone Biles choose to immortalize certain moments in her life through tattoos? The answer lies in the deeply personal meanings behind each piece of ink, reflecting pivotal chapters of her journey as an athlete and individual. One such tattoo, And Still I Rise, carries profound significance for Biles. This phrase, inspired by Maya Angelou's iconic poem, encapsulates resilience and perseverance—qualities that define Biles' career. In her recent Netflix documentary, she delves into the story behind this tattoo, revealing how it serves as a constant reminder of her strength amidst challenges.
For Simone Biles, the decision to get a tattoo is never arbitrary. Each design holds specific meaning tied to her experiences, achievements, and personal growth. The And Still I Rise tattoo, located on her collarbone, pays homage to Dr. Maya Angelou's powerful words. During an interview featured in her Netflix documentary, Biles explains how the phrase resonated with her during a particularly challenging period in her life. It symbolizes rising above adversity, something Biles has done repeatedly throughout her illustrious gymnastics career. Moreover, the timing of getting this tattoo coincided with significant personal developments, including her marriage and preparations for upcoming competitions.
Beyond her athletic prowess, Simone Biles has become a cultural icon representing empowerment and resilience. Her choice of tattoos reflects these themes, serving as visual narratives of her life story. Another notable tattoo is the one commemorating her family heritage, which highlights her connection to her adopted parents and extended family. Such designs underscore the importance of relationships in shaping her identity and providing support throughout her journey.
In addition to personal milestones, Biles uses tattoos to honor her sport. Several designs incorporate elements related to gymnastics, such as balance beams or floor routines. These artistic representations not only celebrate her accomplishments but also remind her of the dedication required to excel at the highest level. By permanently marking her body with symbols of her passion, Biles reinforces her commitment to excellence both inside and outside the gym.
Viola Davis, EGOT winner and acclaimed actress, lent her voice to narrate a segment of Biles' favorite poem, Still I Rise, in a special video produced by Netflix. The pairing of Davis' evocative narration with footage of Biles' triumphant moments creates an emotional tribute to the athlete's indomitable spirit. As Davis reads lines like Just like hopes springing high / Still, I rise, viewers are reminded of Biles' ability to overcome obstacles and inspire others worldwide.
Recently, merchandise inspired by Biles' Still I Rise mantra became available through the World Champions Centre. Fans can purchase exclusive shirts featuring the phrase, just in time for major championships taking place from May 30th to June 2nd, 2024. Orders must be placed by midnight CT on May 15th, with shipments beginning May 17th. For more details, interested parties can contact the WCC Proshop manager via email at . This initiative allows supporters to show solidarity with Biles while celebrating her message of perseverance.
As documented in Simone Biles Rising: Part 2, Biles made a remarkable return to the international stage at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Her performance showcased not only technical brilliance but also emotional maturity gained over years of navigating pressure-filled environments. The documentary provides unprecedented access to her training regimen, mental health practices, and interactions with loved ones leading up to this historic event. Viewers witness firsthand how Biles balances competing demands while staying true to herself—a testament to her unwavering determination.
Through platforms like Netflix, Biles continues to share her story with global audiences. Her openness about vulnerabilities and self-doubt humanizes her image, making her relatable to fans across diverse backgrounds. Whether discussing tattoos, poetry, or competitive pursuits, Biles consistently emphasizes authenticity and courage. These values resonate deeply with those following her journey, reinforcing her status as a role model beyond sports.
Looking ahead, Biles remains focused on pushing boundaries within gymnastics while advocating for broader societal changes. Her influence extends far beyond medals won or records broken; she inspires countless individuals to embrace their unique strengths and pursue greatness fearlessly. As she once stated, Gymnastics is my platform, but my mission goes much further. With every new chapter written, Biles proves that even after achieving extraordinary success, there is always room to grow—and rise again.
